Language Requirements
The majority of programs at Cape Breton University are taught in English. Students need strong English communication, listening, comprehension, reading and writing skills to be successful at Cape Breton University.
Cape Breton University has strong relationships with several English language partners including Cape Breton Language Centre (CBLC), English School of Canada (ESC), EC English Language School and ILAC. If your first language is not English, you will need to provide documentation to show that CBU’s English language proficiency requirements have been met. See the requirements below.
Please note that some programs have different language requirements other than the requirements noted below. Please refer to the program page of the specific program you are applying for to confirm language requirements.
English Language Scores
Official Testing Scores
Please upload your test results to your Future Student account with all other supporting documents. Below are our approved English proficiency testing agencies:
- TOEFL score of 550 (paper test), 213 (computer test), or 80 (internet test): www.ets.org
- IELTS Academic (and IELTS Indicator) score of 6.5 with no band below 6.0: www.ielts.org
- Pearson PTE (Academic) score of 59: www.pearsonpte.com
- Duolingo English Test score of 115 for undergraduate programs, diplomas and certificates. Score of 120 for Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Education and post-baccalaureate diplomas: https://englishtest.duolingo.com/home
Test scores should be uploaded to your Future Student account with all other supporting documents.
English Proficiency Exemption
If you have completed at least two years in a secondary school (as recognized by CBU) or have completed at least 30 credit hours (or equivalent) at a post-secondary institution (as recognized by CBU) where English is the primary language of instruction, you are not required to submit a language score. Official documentation will be required to confirm this period of study was in English.
Please note: If you meet the English Proficiency Exemption and you submit a language score anyway, your score will be assessed against the minimum score requirements listed above. If you meet the English Proficiency Exemption and have submitted a score that falls below the minimum score requirements above, your application will be deemed inadmissible. To be considered for re-admission, an Official Test Score must be submitted at or above the minimums score requirements above.
In all cases, Cape Breton University reserves the right to require proof of language proficiency before permission will be granted to register in academic courses.
Country Specific Requirements
The are minimum credential requirements by country.
